Southampton, Hampshire
Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.
From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out. Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences.
Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
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You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place.
If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.
Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.
Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration. If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.
Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington.
Number of results: 148
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Shopping
Portsmouth
Save the date for Port Solent's popular two-day Christmas Market – on 5 and 6 December.
Music
Portsmouth
Get ready to Step into Christmas for the most magical, feel-good show of the year!
Markets
Old Portsmouth
Set to be the Hotwalls' biggest and best yet Christmas Market yet, with 50+ traders, festive lights, wooden chalets, and mulled wine, it promises to be a festive treat!
Show / Display
Romsey
The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the…
School Holidays
Sandown
Save money this October half term at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight with a online 'Buy one child ticket, Get one free offer'
Sporting Events
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Want to discover the newest winter fashion trends and brands for the upcoming season? Join the Personal Stylists from John Lewis Southampton for an intimate look at the key trends and must-have essentials shaping this winter's wardrobe.
Fireworks
YARMOUTH
Head to Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, for the annual 5 November 2026 Firework Display!
Christmas
Ampfield, Romsey
Find the perfect handmade arts and crafts gifts this Christmas at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens festive market. Explore and purchase wonderful unique gifts directly from talented local makers.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Ampfield, Romsey
Join Sir Sludge on the Sir Harold Hillier spooktacular garden family trail and help restore order in the Land of Decay. Solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and meet some delightfully dreadful characters along the way!
Christmas
Aldershot
Step into a winter wonderland at Aldershot Christmas Cracker, taking place from noon to 5.30pm on Saturday 14 November. The town centre will be bursting with seasonal cheer, offering a sleigh-full of free family fun - from enchanting festive stalls…
Christmas
Portsmouth
Christmas Market at Portsmouth Cathedral in partnership with Love Southsea.
Food
Whiteley
Come along for a spooky afternoon of delicious delights! There will be a selection of sandwiches and treats, followed by a spooky cookie decorating.
Christmas
Sutton Scotney
Celebrate the festive season in timeless style at Norton Park Hotel with an evening inspired by the charm and sophistication of Michael Bublé.
Heritage & History
Ryde
Discover a unique weekend of railway heritage, historic locomotives and seasonal ales at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway's Shunt Fest and Dark Ales Festival.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Winchester
Dig for fossils, wade into the wonders of The Chalk Stream and climb, crawl and explore Dormouse Den at Winchester Science Centre with their three outdoor exhibits exploring the local environment. From ancient seas and crystal-clear chalk streams to…
Sporting Event
Freshwater
Chilly Hilly returns to the Isle of Wight on 13 December 2026, offering runners a challenging 10-mile cross-country route through the stunning landscapes of the West Wight. With spectacular views, demanding hills and a friendly community atmosphere,…
Christmas
Churchill Way West, Basingstoke
Make Christmas extra special with a magical visit to Father Christmas at Milestones. Step into his beautifully decorated grotto, meet his elf and enjoy a special festive experience that the whole family will remember.
Portsmouth 100
Portsmouth
In 2026, Portsmouth celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming a city with a wide round program of events and activities for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Visit the city, join the events and discover more of Portsmouth's fascinating…
Exhibitions
Chawton
Step into the glittering world of Georgian evenings and discover what made a truly magical night out in Hampshire with the new Chawton House exhibition: Dressing Up: Fashion and Nightlife in Eighteenth-Century Hampshire.
Run / Rally
Portsmouth
The world's premier 10-mile event returns to Southsea in October 2027.
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